Interpretive Summary: This publication is a chapter about wetlands ecosystems in California. It is a contribution to a book to be published by University of California Press that includes a comprehensive overview of the ecosystems of California. It is anticipated this book will be used as a college textbook, and as a professional reference by ecologists, conservation biologists, and land and resource management professionals. The chapter includes an overview of the geographic distribution and historical ecology of the wetlands of California. Invasive plant species in wetlands and their ecological impacts are described. A significant portion of the chapter is devoted to vegetation management in wetlands, and the importance of agricultural wetlands managed for rice production and wetland dependent birds. Future changes in wetlands due to climate change and urban growth, as well as ecological restoration efforts are included.

Technical Abstract:
This publication is an introduction to wetland ecosystems in California, their geographic distribution, and historical ecology. Hydroclimatology and hydrology are explained as key drivers and patterns of variability in wetland habitats and biological communities. Primary wetland types are described, with focus on resident and migratory species and their adaptations and dependence on wetlands. Wetland vegetation is introduced by wetland type, and the ecological impacts of invasive plant species on wetlands in riverine, palustrine and estuarine wetlands are covered. The special section of the chapter is devoted to wetland management. This subsection includes the distribution and allocation of water to wetlands in California, vegetation management, agricultural rice fields as wetlands, and the challenges posed by a range of toxicity and pollution issues. Looking to the future, the authors discuss the impacts of changing climate and human population growth on wetlands, and consider the recent trends and future potential of ecological restoration for the conservation of wetland resources in California. The chapter is an element of a book that includes a comprehensive overview of the ecosystems of California.